http://www.toledoblade.com The Latest News from Toledoblade.com (v5) Sun, 05 Jul 2026 04:12:24 GMT en-us hourly 1 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/environment/2026/07/05/city-hopes-revive-legacy-iconic-luna-pier-dance-floor/stories/20260629103 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/environment/2026/07/05/city-hopes-revive-legacy-iconic-luna-pier-dance-floor/stories/20260629103#comments Sun, 05 Jul 2026 11:00:51 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/environment/2026/07/05/city-hopes-revive-legacy-iconic-luna-pier-dance-floor/stories/20260629103 LUNA PIER — The residents of Lakeside, Mich., were marking America’s 150th birthday in style 100 years ago. Mike Lucarelli shows the view from the elevated boardwalk he is working to develop in Luna Pier, Mich., on July 2. Beachgoers cool off in the water in Luna Pier, Mich., on July 2. The lighthouse in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli points out the approximate area of a former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. The new elevated boardwalk, at back left, begins to take shape in Luna Pier, Mich. Beachgoers cool off in the water in Luna Pier, Mich. on July 2. Mike Lucarelli shows, at left, former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie and, at right, how it looks in the modern day in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli shows a map that shows the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. Pylons from the Luna Pier dance floor are visible during a seiche on Lake Erie in 2025. The lighthouse in Luna Pier, Mich. The new elevated boardwalk begins to take shape in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli shows the view from the elevated boardwalk he is working to develop in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli points out the approximate area of a former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. Patrons enjoy Luna Pier Beach. Mike Lucarelli shows the elevated boardwalk he is working to develop in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli points out the approximate area of a former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli shows the view from the elevated boardwalk he is working to develop in Luna Pier, Mich. A 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie as well as a historical photo of a building and an American flag hang on a fence in Luna Pier, Mich. The view from elevated boardwalk Mike Lucarelli is working to develop in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli stands behind a 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie as well as a historical photo of a building and an American flag hanging on a fence in Luna Pier, Mich. Beachgoers cool off in the water in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli shows a 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. A 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. Mike Lucarelli stands behind a 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie as well as a historical photo of a building and an American flag hanging on a fence in Luna Pier, Mich., on Thursday, July 2, 2026. A 1926 Blade ad for the former entertainment venue and dance floor that once stood over Lake Erie in Luna Pier, Mich. The pier and dancefloor at Luna Pier in its heyday. A digital rendering of Mike Lucarelli's boardwalk concept. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-naturalization-ceremony-1/stories/20260704088 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-naturalization-ceremony-1/stories/20260704088#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 18:47:57 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-naturalization-ceremony-1/stories/20260704088 New American citizens took part in their U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Everardo Lopez holds up his citizenship certificate during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Judge James R. Knew II speaks during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Meenaben Navinbhai Patel, left, Everardo Lopez, center, and Boren Lin hold their hands in the air as they take the Oath of Citizenship during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Meenaben Navinbhai Patel receives her citizenship certificate during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Heide Marie Gilbert receives her citizenship certificate during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Maria Angela Romo Fuentes hugs her husband Adrian Salgado after becoming a US citizen during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Maria Angela Romo Fuentes registers to vote after becoming a US citizen during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Meenaben Navinbhai Patel, left, and Everardo Lopez hold American flags during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur claps for the new citizens during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. New citizens take the Oath of Citizenship during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Charles Bentley recites his spoken word poem “The Unfinished Circle” during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Jissela Zoraida Ruble receives her citizenship certificate during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Everardo Lopez shakes hands after receiving his citizenship certificate during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. New citizen Caroline Kuepper shakes hands during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Elodie Adeline Christine Schreiber hugs family and friends after becoming a US citizen during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. Isla Gilbert, 7, and her sister Juniper, 5, dance together during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. New citizens wait to receive their certificates during the U.S. District Court Naturalization Ceremony as part of Sauder Village’s celebration of America's 250th birthday in Archbold on July 4. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/sylvania-celebrates-america-s-250th-digging-past/stories/20260704089 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/sylvania-celebrates-america-s-250th-digging-past/stories/20260704089#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 19:50:07 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/sylvania-celebrates-america-s-250th-digging-past/stories/20260704089 In 1976, the year of the United States’ bicentennial, Stephanie Young was a first-grader who often biked around the western tip of Sylvania’s Burnham Park. Kayla Van Wert, center, looks at items pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsule in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Ben Malczewski reads a part of the Declaration of Independence at Burnham Park in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Jill Johnson reads a part of the Declaration of Independence at Burnham Park in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Mike George reads a part of the Declaration of Independence at Burnham Park in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Sue McHugh reads a part of the Declaration of Independence at Burnham Park in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Larry “Badger” Taylor, of the Toledo Buffalo Soldiers, reads a part of the Declaration of Independence at Burnham Park in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Anthony Haddad shows a copy of The Blade pulled out during the opening of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Items pull from the United States' bicentennial time capsule in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Anthony Haddad shows a scrap book pulled out during the opening of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Gayleen Gindy, right, organizes items pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsule for display in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Gayleen Gindy, left, organizes items pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsule for display in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. A copy of The Blade from 1977 pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsul in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. A view is offered into the United States' bicentennial time capsule after its opening in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. A City of Sylvania worker removes the lid of the time capsule during the unearthing of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Attendees crowd around during the opening of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Anthony Haddad, foreground, removes items as cousins wearing American flag dresses, Neyla Stallard, 7, left, and Audrey Booth, 8, watch during the opening of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. While sporting American flag dresses, cousins Neyla Stallard, 7, left, and Audrey Booth, 8, watch as Anthony Haddad removes items during the opening of a time capsule from the United States' bicentennial in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Items that got wet in the United States' bicentennial time capsule sit in the grass to dry off in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. Items seen inside the United States' bicentennial time capsule after its opening in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. People check out items pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsule in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. People check out items pulled from the United States' bicentennial time capsule in Sylvania on July 4.Today marks the country’s semiquincentennial. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-starr-spangled-5k-race-and-walk/stories/20260704087 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-starr-spangled-5k-race-and-walk/stories/20260704087#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 18:30:51 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-starr-spangled-5k-race-and-walk/stories/20260704087 Participants and spectators dress in red, white, and blue while attending the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on Saturday. Runners pause for the national anthem ahead of the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Ryan Montross wins with a 16:40 time during the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Runners take off on Starr Avenue during the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Aaron Zdawczyk holds an American flag up as the national anthem plays ahead of the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Avery Cooper wears patriotic clothes during the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Jennifer Wolfe wears patriotic gear during the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. Carrying American flags Jason Portala, left, and Steve Majewski during the 33rd annual Starr Spangled 5K Race and Walk at Starr Elementary School in Oregon on July 4. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/operation-outfit-delivers-dignity-veterans-nursing-homes/stories/20260524062 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/operation-outfit-delivers-dignity-veterans-nursing-homes/stories/20260524062#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:15:23 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/operation-outfit-delivers-dignity-veterans-nursing-homes/stories/20260524062 A hospice nurse noticed veterans were in need but rarely asked for help. Nikki Hernandez, left, joins Jane Vargo, a U.S. Army National Guard veteran and Bowling Green Manor staffer, as Ms. Vargo receives an Operation Outfit gift bag. Air Force veteran Gino Cimaglia, now a mission volunteer, presents a new pair of shoes to a fellow veteran seated in a wheelchair. Operation Outfit bags packed with clothing and supplies await delivery to veterans in area nursing homes. From left, Clint Hayslett, Zoey Boes, Nikki Hernandez and Steve Remy of Sincere Hospice gather to support local veterans. Veteran Cletus Wagner smiles while clutching an Operation Outfit bag as he is wheeled back to his room with fresh clothes and supplies. Nikki Hernandez, her husband Ricky Hernandez, and their daughter Zoey pose together as Zoey holds an Operation Outfit bag filled with gear for veterans. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-fireworks-light-up-perrsyburg/stories/20260704083 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-fireworks-light-up-perrsyburg/stories/20260704083#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:09:25 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/04/photo-gallery-fireworks-light-up-perrsyburg/stories/20260704083 Onlookers gather for a display of fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on Friday. Ty’mere Byrd, 6, holds up his sparkler during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Ty’mere Byrd, 6, spins in a circle with his sparkler during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People pull carts through the grass to find their spots for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Kids play as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Waylon Waldbogel, 4, and his brother Joey, 10, walk through the tall grass as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Isaac Hamby, 9, and Kira Wieczorek, 6, eat watermelon during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Yuna Reed, 8, left, her little brother Phineas, 4, and sister Eurie, 9, play with sparklers during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Amy Miller, 14, left, and Brooke Barger, 14, make clover chains as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People watch the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People watch the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on Friday, July 3, 2026. People watch the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People watch the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People watch the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. A man gives a girl an American flag during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Emma Hamby, 17, left, and Kira Wieczorek, 6, eat watermelon as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Chrissy Caudio and Isaiah Wilkie wear matching American flag overalls as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Yuna Reed, 8, left, her little brother Phineas, 4, and sister Eurie, 9, play with sparklers during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. People wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Amyla Turner, 2, watches her sparkler during the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. A.K. Utter, 5, left, Enzo Utter, 6, center, and Ryker Brescol, 6, react to their sparklers lighting up during 3rd of July fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Kids play as they wait for the City of Maumee and Perrysburg fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/politics/2026/07/04/ohio-chamber-touts-state-business-ranking-seeks-end-capital-gains-tax/stories/20260701113 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/politics/2026/07/04/ohio-chamber-touts-state-business-ranking-seeks-end-capital-gains-tax/stories/20260701113#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 15:28:32 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/politics/2026/07/04/ohio-chamber-touts-state-business-ranking-seeks-end-capital-gains-tax/stories/20260701113 COLUMBUS — The Buckeye State’s business ranking has improved significantly over the past several years, according to the latest version of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce’s Blueprint for Ohio’s Economic Future. Steve Stivers, president and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, speaks with reporters at the organization's office in downtown Columbus on June 24. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/man-dead-2-vehicle-crash-lake-township/stories/20260704082 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/man-dead-2-vehicle-crash-lake-township/stories/20260704082#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 14:33:00 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/man-dead-2-vehicle-crash-lake-township/stories/20260704082 A Toledo man died Friday afternoon after he struck the car driving in front of him in Wood County, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/fbi-seeks-help-identifying-bank-robber/stories/20260704081 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/fbi-seeks-help-identifying-bank-robber/stories/20260704081#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 13:44:52 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/fbi-seeks-help-identifying-bank-robber/stories/20260704081 The FBI is asking for the public’s help identifying and locating a man who robbed a West Toledo bank Thursday morning. A Black male wearing all black entered the Citizens Bank branch at 5911 Lewis Ave. around 9:45 a.m. brandishing a firearm. A Black male wearing all black entered the Citizens Bank branch at 5911 Lewis Ave. around 9:45 a.m. brandishing a firearm. A Black male wearing all black entered the Citizens Bank branch at 5911 Lewis Ave. around 9:45 a.m. brandishing a firearm. A Black male wearing all black entered the Citizens Bank branch at 5911 Lewis Ave. around 9:45 a.m. brandishing a firearm. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/2-drivers-killed-airport-highway-crash-passenger-seriously-injured/stories/20260704080 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/2-drivers-killed-airport-highway-crash-passenger-seriously-injured/stories/20260704080#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 13:24:04 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/04/2-drivers-killed-airport-highway-crash-passenger-seriously-injured/stories/20260704080 Two men died after a head-on collision in South Toledo early Saturday morning, while a passenger was seriously injured. https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/03/sylvania-hudson-gallery-new-summer-day/stories/20260702031 https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/03/sylvania-hudson-gallery-new-summer-day/stories/20260702031#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:25:21 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/art/2026/07/03/sylvania-hudson-gallery-new-summer-day/stories/20260702031 Scott Hudson, owner and curator of Hudson Gallery, talks about Royce Deans artwork, which is displayed as part of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. “Uprising” by artist Debra Sue Solecki is displayed as part of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. Woodblock prints by Mary Brodbeck are displayed as part of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. Painting “En Route to the Fountain” by Donna Talerico and ceramic “Peach Eagle” by Shawn Camp are displayed as part of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. Scott Hudson, owner and curator of Hudson Gallery, talks about the theme of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. Scott Hudson, owner and curator of Hudson Gallery, talks about the theme of the New Summer Day art exhibition in front of artist Sally Thompsons “Weaving Gardens” oil pastel series at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. “Synthetic Soil” by artist Debra Sue Solecki is displayed as part of the New Summer Day art exhibition at the Hudson Gallery in Sylvania on July 1. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/aim-fire-reload-metroparks-toledo-tells-the-story-of-fallen-timbers-battle/stories/20260703098 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/aim-fire-reload-metroparks-toledo-tells-the-story-of-fallen-timbers-battle/stories/20260703098#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:22:04 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/aim-fire-reload-metroparks-toledo-tells-the-story-of-fallen-timbers-battle/stories/20260703098 Claire Sokoloski walked through the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Metropark with a compass in hand, while learning about the Battle of Fallen Timbers. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, leads the walk. Tim Stelzer, at left in foreground, asks a question of Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, center. Attendees listen. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, leads the walk. Lisa Sokoloski, left, Pete Sokoloski and 7-year-old Claire Sokoloski participate in an interactive part of the walk as they re-enact Prussian-style musket warfare. Lisa Sokoloski, left, Pete Sokoloski and 7-year-old Claire Sokoloski participate in an interactive part of the walk as they re-enact Prussian-style musket warfare used by the Legion of the United States. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, speaks about artifacts including the legion buttons from the Legion of the United States. An sign gives details about the Fort Miamis. An sign gives details about the Western Confederacy. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, speaks about Anthony Wayne. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, front left, leads the walk. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, speaks about Anthony Wayne. John McMahon, left, rests. Patrick Bronson, program interpreter at Metroparks Toledo, center, speaks as walkers rest. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-3rd-of-july-fireworks-at-fort-meigs/stories/20260703120 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-3rd-of-july-fireworks-at-fort-meigs/stories/20260703120#comments Sat, 04 Jul 2026 03:22:02 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-3rd-of-july-fireworks-at-fort-meigs/stories/20260703120 Fireworks exploded over the Maumee River during 3rd of July fireworks at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg on July 3. Click the image above to view the full gallery. Fireworks explode over the Maumee River. Fireworks explode over the Maumee River. Girls look off the ledge of the Fort Meigs monument. Kids play football together. Kids play on the Fort Meigs monument to pass the time before 3rd of July fireworks. Coraline Gaskell, 10, plays with a sparkler stuck on the end of a foam sword. A rainbow forms above Fort Meigs. A.K. Utter, 5, left, Enzo Utter, 6, center, and Ryker Brescol, 6, react to their sparklers lighting up. Rykker Brescol, 6, plays with a sparkler. Enzo Utter, 6, plays with a sparkler. A.K. Utter, 5, left, Enzo Utter, 6, center, and Ryker Brescol, 6, play with their sparklers. Enzo Utter, 6, plays with a sparkler. Autumn Frederick, 12, left, paints her leg with her friends Allyson Dooley, center, and Arabella Schoenrock. Arabella Schoenrock, left, and Allyson Dooley, center use red, white and blue paint to paint on their legs. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/sunshine-communities-host-open-house-new-tech-house/stories/20260703103 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/sunshine-communities-host-open-house-new-tech-house/stories/20260703103#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:33:19 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/sunshine-communities-host-open-house-new-tech-house/stories/20260703103 Sunshine Communities will celebrate its new Tech House with a Wednesday open house. Jason Abodeely, Sunshine Communities president and CEO, speaks during the Rotary Club meeting on March 16, at the Glass City Center in Toledo. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/03/bowling-green-resident-shot-dead-by-friend-in-jerry-city/stories/20260703102 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/03/bowling-green-resident-shot-dead-by-friend-in-jerry-city/stories/20260703102#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:50:17 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2026/07/03/bowling-green-resident-shot-dead-by-friend-in-jerry-city/stories/20260703102 JERRY CITY, Ohio — A Bowling Green man was killed by a friend in the village of Jerry City early Friday morning, the Wood County Sheriff’s Office said. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/education/2026/07/03/bgsu-state-funds-structured-literacy-center/stories/20260702121 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/education/2026/07/03/bgsu-state-funds-structured-literacy-center/stories/20260702121#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 19:21:37 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/education/2026/07/03/bgsu-state-funds-structured-literacy-center/stories/20260702121 Kate Brodeur, associate professor of literacy education, stands in the lobby of Bowling Green State University's education building on July 2. The university recently received a $750,000 grant to establish a structured literacy center. Kate Brodeur, associate professor of literacy education, stands in the lobby of Bowling Green State University's education building on July 2. The university recently received a $750,000 grant to establish a structured literacy center. Summer camp participants walk near Bowling Green State University's education building on July 2. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/transportation/2026/07/03/projects-close-streets/stories/20260703100 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/transportation/2026/07/03/projects-close-streets/stories/20260703100#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:49:05 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/transportation/2026/07/03/projects-close-streets/stories/20260703100 The city of Toledo will begin multiple roadwork projects on Monday, causing several road closures, transportation officials announced. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-best-photos-week-ending-july-2/stories/20260703099 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-best-photos-week-ending-july-2/stories/20260703099#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:20:03 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/photo-gallery-best-photos-week-ending-july-2/stories/20260703099 From a custom bike show to Toledo Mud Hens action, Blade photographers head out every day to capture the triumphs, tragedies, and oddities of life in Lucas County and beyond. Mary Beth Alberti, development director of The National Exchange Club, stands behind a sign commemorating America’s 250th anniversary at The National Exchange Club in Toledo on June 29. Megan Hoppel, co chair of cat care, holds Boo the cat, inside of RubyCats Cat Cafe in downtown Toledo on June 30. Drew Neville, of the Toledo Mud Made Riders, arrives on his custom bike during the T-Town Showdown Custom Bike Show in Toledo on June 27. Girls line up for a hot meal and personal necessities and niceties as Fonda Royster leads a “Worthy on Purpose” workshop, which prioritizes building self-esteem, at the Mott Branch Library on June 26 in central Toledo. The workshops are part of her Open Arms Transformation Living, a nonprofit that addresses unhealthy relationships and human trafficking in vulnerable female youth. Mandy Denbow, right, and her son, Leo, play with a bubble machine at Bowling Green Pride on June 27. A groundhog sits beside its burrow at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Paula Lauer, Chris Burkhart, and Nancy Herlocher of the Fort Industry Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, use small scrubbers to clean the headstone of Jacob Wiltse, who served in the Revolutionary War, at the Springfield Township Cemetery in Holland on June 27. Max Anderson runs to second base while an Iowa Cubs player fields a ground ball during a Toledo Mud Hens game against the Iowa Cubs at Fifth Third Field on June 30 Ron Hornbeck laughs while using his ham radio during Toledo Mobile Radio Association’s Field Day at the Wolcott House in Maumee on June 27. Devin Rice plays a gong at Inner Voyage Studio, the first stop in HealGrid's Holistic Scavenger Hunt, on June 27 in Sylvania Township. Koko Dahn, store owner, shows some of the popular items at Yarlu African Market in South Toledo on June 30. Pete Ochoa of Northwood flips his daughter Ivana, 10, into the water on June 29 at Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon. Toledo’s Sawyer Gipson-Long throws a pitch during an International League baseball game between the Toledo Mud Hens and Iowa Cubs at Fifth Third Field in Toledo on July 1. Children splash around in the fountains at Promenade Park on a hot and sunny day in downtown Toledo on June 29. Beachgoers stay cool on June 29 at Maumee Bay State Park in Oregon. Lindsay Kozak, left, and Chelsea Kozak, who run the business Kozy’s Sodys together, with some of their drink kits in Toledo on June 26. Lindsay Kozak, left, and Chelsea Kozak, who run the business Kozy’s Sodys together, stand with some of their drink kits in Toledo on June 26. Mekhi Warren stops for a water break while working out during hot weather at Ottawa Park in West Toledo on June 30. He has a gym membership, but he says he likes exercising outside on hot days. Mekhi Warren works out during hot weather at Ottawa Park in West Toledo on June 30. He has a gym membership, but he says he likes exercising outside on hot days. Kyla Schroeder, 8, and Ella Hemphling, 8, raise their water bottles while wearing neck fans on a hot day during an International League baseball game between the Toledo Mud Hens and Iowa Cubs at Fifth Third Field in Toledo on July 1. A bee sits on butterfly milkweed at Irwin Prairie Nature Preserve in Holland on June 27. Maniya Boyd, 8, jumps into the pool at Smith Park on a hot summer day in Toledo on June 28. An aerial view shows people cooling off at the splash pad at Jamie Farr Park early on in the afternoon heat in Toledo on July 1. Journey Davis, 7, right, sprays her friends with a water hose as they play in an inflatable pool on a hot and sunny day in Toledo on July 1. Sage Wyse, 11, left, does a cartwheel while playing in the water from a fire hydrant with Damalachi White, 10, in Toledo on June 29. From left, Rebecca Bennett, Nate Wishard, Angela Singler, and Scott Hayes of the Oregon Economic Development Foundation team participate in The Epilepsy Center of Northwest Ohio annual fundraising event Practically Golf on June 26 at Promenade Park in Toledo. The event features more than 200 corporate golfers during the day, followed by an evening open to the public with mini golf, music, food, raffles, and family fun in the heart of downtown Toledo. Doug Miller, an executive in the Northwest Capital ponzi scheme, is sentenced for his part at the Lucas County Common Pleas Court in Toledo on June 30. A baby Spotted Lanternfly hits on a plant during the Lantern Fly Stomp Fest and Community Clean Up around the Junction neighborhood in Toledo on June 27. Toledo’s starting pitcher Matt Seelinger throws the ball during an International League baseball game at Fifth Third Field in downtown Toledo on July 2. Mia Pettaway, 9, sprays the hose with Firefighter Zach Biglin during the Toledo Safety Summer Send-Off event at Smith Park in Toledo on June 27. Richard Scheich, an executive in the Northwest Capital ponzi scheme, is sentenced for his part on June 29 at Lucas County Common Pleas Court in Toledo. Teri Utz Bersee paints the Maumee River during an informational open house about the Roche de Boeuf Bridge project at Farnsworth Metropark in Waterville on June 26. Meadow Mainardi, 7, enjoys a waffle cone with her mom Sarah at a grand opening of Swanky Scoops, the only ice cream shop in downtown Toledo on July 1. Adrianna Van Hoose stands next to photographs she created as part of the "Shoot This Not That" program, which held its community celebration at the Anthem Welcome Center in downtown Toledo on June 30. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/npr-s-scott-tong-to-speak-at-lakeside-chautauqua/stories/20260702107 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/npr-s-scott-tong-to-speak-at-lakeside-chautauqua/stories/20260702107#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:21:07 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/community-events/2026/07/03/npr-s-scott-tong-to-speak-at-lakeside-chautauqua/stories/20260702107 LAKESIDE, Ohio — Scott Tong, a journalist and co-host of NPR’s Here & Now, will give a keynote address on globalization and its impacts Thursday at Lakeside Chautauqua. The entrance gate to Lakeside Chautauqua, a spiritual and recreational resort community in 2018. The community is hosting Cleveland Indians Hall of Famer Andre Thornton. https://www.toledoblade.com/local/city/2026/07/03/volunteer-battles-groundhogs-preserve-historic-cemetery/stories/20260701131 https://www.toledoblade.com/local/city/2026/07/03/volunteer-battles-groundhogs-preserve-historic-cemetery/stories/20260701131#comments Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:03:21 GMT https://www.toledoblade.com/local/city/2026/07/03/volunteer-battles-groundhogs-preserve-historic-cemetery/stories/20260701131 Elijah Diefenbach kneels with his dog, Azula, at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. A groundhog sits beside its burrow at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. A monument memorializes Addison Q. Thacher, who was Toledo's mayor from 1932 to 1933, at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. A groundhog peeks out of his hole at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Elijah Diefenbach cleans a gravestone at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Elijah Diefenbach holds a tube of Gopher Gasser, which he said he found at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Elijah Diefenbach said groundhog burrows such as this one have moved headstones from their original location. Elijah Diefenbach, who volunteers as the cemetery's caretaker, said the stones used to be in a straight line. A groundhog peeks out of his hole at the base of a gravestone at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. A groundhog peeks out of his hole at the base of a gravestone at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Azula, Elijah Diefenbach's dog, sits by his gravestone-cleaning supplies at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo on June 26. Azula, named after an 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' character, joins Mr. Diefenbach at the cemetery and chooses which stones he works on. Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo sits just off Phillips Avenue and has been damaged by groundhogs on June 26. Elijah Diefenbach gives a tour of Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo, which has been damaged by burrowing groundhogs, on June 26. Elijah Diefenbach points out groundhog burrows at Collingwood Cemetery in West Toledo, while his dog, Azula, rolls in the grass on June 26.